During the Qianlong period, the Qing Dynasty reached its peak of national strength, but behind its prosperity, there was a little-known secret - the treasury deficit. This article will reveal the underlying reasons for the treasury deficit during the Qianlong period.

Firstly, the prosperity of the Qianlong period was only a facade. Despite the strong national strength, vast territory, large population, and economic prosperity of the Qing Dynasty, there was a serious problem lurking beneath the surface - the treasury deficit. According to statistics, the treasury deficit during the Qianlong reign reached millions of taels of silver, an astonishing figure at that time. So, what exactly caused such a huge deficit in the treasury during the Qianlong period?

Secondly, the wars were a major factor. Emperor Qianlong launched several wars during his reign, such as suppressing rebellions in Daxia and Zhuo and suppressing rebellions in the Zhungeer tribe. These wars consumed vast sums of military expenditures, leading to the depletion of the treasury. Additionally, to maintain border security, Emperor Qianlong strengthened border defense and constructed numerous fortifications, beacon towers, and other facilities. The construction of these military projects also required significant financial investments, further burdening the treasury.

Thirdly, political corruption played a significant role. During the Qianlong period, corruption in the officialdom was severe, and bribery and corruption became common practices. Many officials amassed wealth for personal gain, leading to the deterioration of the country's financial situation. Emperor Qianlong himself handled the issue of corruption incompetently and even tolerated and shielded some corrupt officials. This worsened the problem of corruption in the officialdom and further exacerbated the treasury deficit.

Fourthly, extravagance and waste were also contributory factors. Emperor Qianlong organized numerous grand celebrations during his reign, such as the birthday of the emperor and the queen's birthday. These celebrations required significant financial investments, leading to the depletion of the treasury. Additionally, Emperor Qianlong himself lived a luxurious lifestyle and had a passion for collecting rare treasures. To satisfy his interests, the court spent huge sums of money on purchasing various treasures, further burdening the treasury.

In conclusion, the underlying reasons for the treasury deficit during the Qianlong period mainly included war consumption, political corruption, and extravagance and waste. These issues collectively led to the huge deficit in the Qing Dynasty's treasury, laying hidden dangers for the decline of the dynasty in its later period. Therefore, we should learn lessons from history and be vigilant against the recurrence of similar problems.

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